Support foot device and washing machine

By combining a support base, guide rod, elastic element, locking rod, pressing element, and locking element, the washing machine achieves self-adaptive leveling and locking using the gravity of external equipment. This solves the problems of cumbersome operation and insufficient stability in existing technologies, and improves efficiency and reliability.

CN224494655UActive Publication Date: 2026-07-14CHANGHONG MEILING CO LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
CHANGHONG MEILING CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-07-17
Publication Date
2026-07-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing washing machine support leg leveling structures are cumbersome to operate, rely on tools, lack long-term stability, pose a risk of leakage, and lack an independent mechanical locking structure.

Method used

It adopts a combination structure of support base, guide rod, elastic element, locking rod, pressure element and locking element, and uses the gravity of external equipment to achieve self-adjustment and lock easily through the locking element, avoiding repeated manual operation.

Benefits of technology

It achieves adaptive leveling without repeated manual operation, improving efficiency, simplifying the operation process, reducing the workload of workers, and has high structural reliability and low cost.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The embodiment of the present application provides a supporting leg device and a washing machine, wherein the supporting leg device comprises a supporting seat, a guide rod extending in the vertical direction, a top end of the guide rod being used for being connected to an external device, the guide rod and the supporting seat being in a mutual sleeving structure and the guide rod being capable of moving relatively to the supporting seat in the vertical direction, an elastic piece arranged at the top of the supporting seat, the elastic piece being compressed under the action of gravity of the external device, a locking rod, a top end of the locking rod being used for being connected to the external device, the locking rod being arranged side by side with the guide rod, a pressing piece arranged at the lower part of the locking rod and being capable of moving relatively to the locking rod, the pressing piece being capable of moving relatively to the locking rod in a first direction to be in contact with the surface of the supporting seat or moving in a second direction to be away from the supporting seat, and a locking piece arranged at the lower part of the locking rod and used for pressing the pressing piece to the surface of the supporting seat. The supporting leg device and the washing machine provided by the embodiment of the present application can realize self-adaptive leveling and the locking mode is relatively simple.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to structural technology of household appliances, and more particularly to a support leg device and a washing machine. Background Technology

[0002] When installing a drum washing machine, leveling feet are required, and current technology generally uses a threaded rotary leveling structure. During installation, workers must repeatedly bend over and use tools to adjust the height of each foot individually, and then check multiple times with a level, making the process cumbersome and time-consuming. Although spring-assisted leveling structures exist, tools are still needed to tighten the nuts after leveling. Hydraulic automatic leveling solutions are also available on the market, but they rely on oil circuit sealing and media flow, posing a risk of leakage, being complex to maintain, and lacking an independent mechanical locking structure, resulting in insufficient long-term stability. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To address one of the aforementioned technical deficiencies, this application provides a support foot device and a washing machine.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the embodiments of this application, a support leg device is provided, comprising:

[0005] Support base;

[0006] The guide rod extends vertically; the top of the guide rod is used to connect to external equipment. The guide rod and the support base are interlocked and the guide rod can move vertically relative to the support base.

[0007] An elastic element is located at the top of the support base; the elastic element is compressed by the gravity of the external equipment.

[0008] A locking rod, the top of which is used to connect to an external device; the locking rod is located next to the guide rod and is arranged side by side with the guide rod;

[0009] A clamping element is disposed at the lower part of the locking rod and is movable relative to the locking rod; the clamping element can move relative to the locking rod in a first direction to contact the surface of the support seat, or in a second direction to move away from the support seat;

[0010] A locking element, located at the lower part of the locking rod, is used to press the clamping element against the surface of the support base.

[0011] As described above, the support base includes a base and a support column; the support column extends vertically and is disposed on the upper surface of the base; the cross-sectional area of ​​the base is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the support column; the top of the support column and the guide rod are interlocked.

[0012] As described above, the top of the support column is provided with a receiving cavity for accommodating the guide rod; the guide rod is inserted into the receiving cavity and moves vertically relative to the support column.

[0013] The elastic element is sleeved on the guide rod, and the bottom end of the elastic element abuts against the top of the support column.

[0014] As described above, the elastic element of the support leg device is a linear spring.

[0015] As described above, the lower part of the locking rod is provided with a sleeve, and the clamping member passes through the sleeve and can move in the sleeve along a first direction or a second direction.

[0016] The locking element in the support leg device described above includes:

[0017] A connecting rod, one end of which is connected to a locking rod;

[0018] An eccentric wheel, the shaft of which is connected to the other end of the connecting rod;

[0019] A handle is connected to an eccentric wheel; the handle drives the eccentric wheel to rotate until it contacts the clamping element and can apply a thrust to the clamping element that moves in a first direction.

[0020] As described above, the support foot device has a first stop block at one end of the clamping member and a second stop block at the other end; the first stop block is located on one side of the eccentric wheel for contacting the eccentric wheel, and the second stop block is located on one side of the support base for contacting the support base.

[0021] As described above, the bottom end of the locking rod of the support foot device is provided with a third stop block for contacting the handle.

[0022] As described above, in the support foot device, the bottom end of the locking rod is bent toward the handle, and the third stop block is set perpendicular to the bottom end of the locking rod.

[0023] According to a second aspect of the embodiments of this application, a washing machine is provided, including the support leg device as described above.

[0024] The technical solution provided in this application embodiment employs a support base, a guide rod, an elastic element, a locking rod, a pressing element, and a locking element. The guide rod extends vertically; its top end is used to connect to an external device. The guide rod and the support base are interlocked, and the guide rod can move vertically relative to the support base. The elastic element is located at the top of the support base and is compressed by the gravity of the external device. The top end of the locking rod is used to connect to the external device; the locking rod is located beside the guide rod and arranged parallel to it. The pressing element is located at the lower part of the locking rod and can move relative to it. The pressing element can move relative to the locking rod in a first direction to contact the surface of the support base, or in a second direction to move away from the support base. The locking element, located at the lower part of the locking rod, is used to press the pressing element against the surface of the support base. This achieves self-adaptive leveling of the external device by its own gravity, eliminating the need for repeated manual operation and significantly improving efficiency. After leveling, only the locking element needs to be operated to press the pressing element against the surface of the support base, simplifying operation and reducing the workload of workers. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this application and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments of this application and are used to explain this application, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings:

[0026] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the support foot device provided in the embodiment of this application in the released state;

[0027] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the support foot device provided in the embodiment of this application in a locked state;

[0028] Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the eccentric wheel in the locked position in the support foot device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0029] Figure label:

[0030] 11-Base; 12-Support column; 2-Guide rod; 3-Elastic element; 4-Locking rod; 41-Sleeve; 42-Third stop block; 5-Pressure element; 51-First stop block; 52-Second stop block; 61-Connecting rod; 62-Eccentric wheel; 63-Handle; 7-Washing machine; 8-Ground. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To make the technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the exemplary embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not an exhaustive list of all embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

[0032] In traditional solutions, the adjustable feet at the bottom of the washing machine are highly dependent on tools, requiring wrenches and other tools for both adjustment and tightening, making operation inconvenient. Furthermore, the operation lacks continuity, with leveling and tightening performed separately, requiring workers to bend over repeatedly for extended periods, resulting in time-consuming, labor-intensive, and inefficient work.

[0033] Example 1

[0034] This embodiment provides a support foot device that can be installed at the bottom of an external device, achieving adaptive leveling based on the weight of the external device and locking in place after reaching a stable state. The external device can be a household appliance, furniture, instrument, or other similar equipment. This embodiment uses a washing machine as an example to provide a detailed description of the support foot device; those skilled in the art can apply the solution provided in this embodiment to other devices.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the support foot device provided in the embodiment of this application in the released state. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the support foot device provided in the embodiment of this application in a locked state. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The support foot device provided in this embodiment includes: a support base, a guide rod 2, an elastic element 3, a locking rod 4, a pressing element 5, and a locking element.

[0036] The support base can be placed on the ground or a platform. For washing machines, the support base is placed on the ground.

[0037] The guide rod 2 extends vertically, and its top end is used to connect to an external device, specifically the bottom of the washing machine. The guide rod 2 and the support base are interlocked, and the guide rod 2 can move vertically relative to the support base. That is, the guide rod 2 can move up and down without separating from the support base. The support base guides and limits the movement of the guide rod 2.

[0038] Elastic element 3 is located at the top of the support base and is compressed by the gravity of the external equipment. When the washing machine with support feet at the bottom is placed on the ground, the weight of the washing machine causes the elastic element 3 to compress and the guide rod 2 to move downward. Assuming that the washing machine has four sets of support feet at the bottom, the washing machine can compress the elastic elements 3 in all four sets of support feet and move the guide rod 2 downward until all four sets of support feet reach a stable position. When the four sets of support feet are produced in the same batch and the performance of the parts is basically the same, the washing machine can achieve a stable leveling state.

[0039] The top of the locking rod 4 is used to connect to the washing machine 7, specifically to the bottom surface of the washing machine 7. The locking rod 4 is located next to the guide rod 2 and is arranged side by side with the guide rod 2, that is, the locking rod 4 extends vertically.

[0040] The clamping member 5 is disposed at the lower part of the locking rod 4 and is movable relative to the locking rod 4. The clamping member 5 can move relative to the locking rod 4 in a first direction to contact the surface of the support base, or in a second direction to move away from the support base. The locking member is disposed at the lower part of the locking rod 4 to press the clamping member 5 against the surface of the support base, so as to keep the washing machine locked in this position and prevent shaking.

[0041] When the washing machine reaches a stable level, operate the clamping component 5, push the clamping component 5 to move along the first direction and press it against the surface of the support base to complete the locking. This solution only requires one locking operation on each of the four sets of support feet at the bottom of the washing machine, which is simple, quick, efficient, and reduces the workload of workers.

[0042] The technical solution provided in this embodiment employs a support base, a guide rod, an elastic element, a locking rod, a pressing element, and a locking component. The guide rod extends vertically; its top end connects to an external device. The guide rod and support base are interlocked, and the guide rod can move vertically relative to the support base. The elastic element is located at the top of the support base and is compressed by the gravity of the external device. The top end of the locking rod connects to the external device and is located beside the guide rod, parallel to it. The pressing component is located at the bottom of the locking rod and can move relative to it. The pressing component can move relative to the locking rod in a first direction to contact the surface of the support base, or in a second direction to move away from the support base. The locking component, located at the bottom of the locking rod, presses the pressing component against the surface of the support base, enabling the external device to self-adaptively level itself using its own gravity, eliminating the need for repeated manual operation and significantly improving efficiency. After leveling, only the locking component needs to be operated to press the pressing component against the surface of the support base, simplifying operation and reducing the workload of workers.

[0043] Based on the above technical solution, this embodiment provides an implementation method for a support base: the support base includes a base 11 and a support column 12. The cross-sectional area of ​​the base 11 is larger than that of the support column 12, and the larger cross-sectional area of ​​the base 11 allows for stable support on the ground. The support column 12 extends vertically and is disposed on the upper surface of the base 11. The top of the support column 12 and the guide rod 2 are interlocked.

[0044] The base 11 can be made of metal or rubber. When made of rubber, it can prevent the washing machine from making loud noises when moving or operating.

[0045] One embodiment is as follows: the guide rod 2 has a cavity, the support column 12 is inserted into the cavity of the guide rod 2, the support column 12 can move vertically within the cavity of the guide rod 2, and the elastic element 3 is disposed between the top of the support column 12 and the guide rod 2.

[0046] Another implementation is as follows: The top of the support column 12 is provided with a receiving cavity for accommodating the guide rod 2. The guide rod 2 is inserted into the receiving cavity and can move up and down within the receiving cavity, achieving vertical relative movement with the support column 12. An elastic element 3 is sleeved on the guide rod 2, and the bottom end of the elastic element 3 abuts against the top of the support column 11. The gravity of the washing machine presses the guide rod 2 downward, causing the guide rod 2 to move downward and compress the elastic element 3 until a stable state is reached.

[0047] This stable state can be the position where the elastic element 3 reaches its maximum deformation, or it can be the position where the weight of the washing machine is equal to the rebound force of the elastic element.

[0048] The elastic element 3 can be a rubber sleeve, a linear spring, or other structures. The top of the elastic element 3 is fixed to the bottom of the washing machine, which also prevents the guide rod 2 from coming out of the support column 12.

[0049] The aforementioned support column 12 can be a cylindrical shape with a rectangular cross-section or a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section.

[0050] The locking rod 4 extends vertically, and its top end is connected to the bottom surface of the washing machine 7. The lower part of the locking rod 4 is provided with a sleeve 41, and the clamping member 5 passes through the sleeve 41 and can move in the first direction or the second direction within the sleeve 41.

[0051] The clamping member 5 can be a rod-shaped structure, inserted into the sleeve 41. The sleeve 41 can be a cylindrical tube, arranged horizontally, with the center line of its inner hole passing through the center line of the cavity receiving the support column 12. The clamping member 5 can move within the sleeve 41 in a first direction until it contacts the outer surface of the support column 12; or it can move in a second direction, separating from the support column 12. The second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0052] The locking element can be implemented in various ways, such as by threaded tightening, clamping, or strap locking. This embodiment provides one implementation method: the locking element includes a connecting rod 61, an eccentric wheel 62, and a handle 63.

[0053] One end of the connecting rod 61 is connected to the locking rod 4. Specifically, the top end of the connecting rod 61 is connected to the locking rod 4, and the bottom end is connected to the eccentric wheel 62.

[0054] One embodiment is as follows: the connecting rod 61 includes two sections bent at an obtuse angle, one section extending vertically and connected to the eccentric wheel 62, and the other section obliquely upward and connected to the locking rod 4.

[0055] The shaft of the eccentric wheel 62 is connected to the other end of the connecting rod 61. Specifically, the shaft is fixed to the connecting rod 61, and the eccentric wheel 62 can rotate relative to the shaft. Alternatively, the eccentric wheel 62 is fixedly connected to the shaft, and the shaft is rotatably mounted on the connecting rod 61.

[0056] The handle 63 is connected to the eccentric wheel 62, which can drive the eccentric wheel 62 to rotate until it contacts the clamping member 5, and can apply a thrust to the clamping member 5 that moves in the first direction.

[0057] Furthermore, the clamping member 5 has a first stop block 51 at one end and a second stop block 52 at the other end. The first stop block 51 is located on one side of the eccentric wheel 62 and is in contact with the eccentric wheel 62. The second stop block 52 is located on one side of the support base and is in contact with the support base, specifically with the outer surface of the support column 12. The first stop block 51 and the second stop block 52 also prevent the clamping member 5 from dislodging from the sleeve 41, thereby limiting the stroke of the clamping member 5.

[0058] Both the first stop block 51 and the second stop block 52 can be cuboid in shape. Their two larger opposing surfaces are perpendicular to the clamping member 5. One surface is connected to the clamping member 5, and the other surface is used to contact the outer surface of the support column 12.

[0059] The first stop block 51 can be a metal block, a plastic block, or a rubber block, etc. When a rubber block is used, it can generate a large frictional force with the circumferential surface of the eccentric wheel 62, preventing slippage and without damaging the surface of the eccentric wheel 62.

[0060] The second stop block 52 can be a metal block, a plastic block, or a rubber block, etc. When a rubber block is used, it can generate a large frictional force with the support column 12 without damaging the surface of the support column 12.

[0061] Furthermore, a third stop block 42 is provided at the bottom end of the locking rod 4 for contacting the handle 63. Specifically, the bottom end of the locking rod 4 is bent towards the handle 63. The third stop block 42 is cuboid in shape, and its two larger opposing surfaces are perpendicular to the bottom end of the locking rod 4.

[0062] The third stop block 42 can be a metal block, a plastic block, or a rubber block, etc. When a rubber block is used, it can generate greater friction with the handle 63, preventing slippage and not damaging the surface of the handle 63.

[0063] In the above-described solution, when the washing machine with bottom support feet is placed on the ground, the machine's gravity causes the elastic element 3 to compress and the guide rod 2 to move downwards. Assuming the washing machine has four sets of support feet, the machine can compress the elastic element 3 in all four sets of support feet, causing the guide rod 2 to move downwards until all four sets of support feet reach a stable position. When the four sets of support feet are produced in the same batch and the components have essentially the same performance, the washing machine can achieve a stable leveling state.

[0064] like Figure 1 and Figure 2From the viewing angle, after the washing machine reaches the leveling state, turn the handle 63 counterclockwise to rotate the eccentric wheel 62. During the rotation of the eccentric wheel 62, it pushes the clamping member 5 to the right until it contacts the outer surface of the support column 12. Continue to rotate the eccentric wheel 62 until it can lock the clamping member 5 and the eccentric wheel 62 will not rotate in the opposite direction, thus achieving the locking state.

[0065] When it is necessary to release the lock, turn the handle 63 clockwise to release the pressure applied to the clamping member 5.

[0066] Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing the eccentric wheel in the locked position in the support leg device provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 3 As shown, C is the rotation center of the eccentric wheel 63; O is the geometric center of the eccentric wheel 63; F is the reaction force of the first stop block 51 on the eccentric wheel 63; D is the point where the reaction force F of the first stop block 51 on the eccentric wheel 63 is applied; θ is the angle between F and DC; μ is the coefficient of friction between the first stop block 51 and the eccentric wheel 63.

[0067] Frictional torque = μFDC cosθ

[0068] Rotational torque = FDC sinθ,

[0069] When the rotational torque is less than or equal to the frictional torque, the eccentric wheel 63 achieves self-locking in this state. FDC sinθ≤μFDC cosθ→θ≤arc tanμ, that is, the eccentric wheel can achieve self-locking when θ is less than an angle determined by the friction coefficient μ.

[0070] The workflow of the above solution is as follows:

[0071] Step 1: Gravity pre-leveling

[0072] Place the washing machine 7 on the ground 8, and the weight of the washing machine 7 will compress the elastic elements 3 of each support leg device;

[0073] The guide rod 2 slides downward relative to the support column 12, causing the base 11 to be supported on the ground 8;

[0074] The elastic element 3 adapts to the unevenness of the ground and compresses accordingly to complete the initial leveling.

[0075] Step 2: Manually tighten

[0076] Workers observe the level to confirm the leveling status;

[0077] With one hand, turn the handle 63 until it is blocked by the third stop block 42, and the eccentric wheel 63 will also rotate to the dead point position at the same time.

[0078] The eccentric wheel 63 pushes the first stop block 51 of the clamping member 5, causing the clamping member 5 to move to the right until the second stop block 52 radially presses against the surface of the support column 12, and the locking is completed.

[0079] The above solution enables adaptive leveling by compensating for uneven ground surfaces with elastic components, achieving rapid pre-balancing. Furthermore, no additional tools are required during the locking process; simply turning handle 63 is sufficient. The entire process, from leveling to locking, is done manually, making it simple, quick, and efficient, significantly reducing operation steps and time. Moreover, the solution is a purely mechanical structure, independent of electrical circuits or hydraulics, ensuring high reliability and low cost.

[0080] Example 2

[0081] Based on the above technical solutions, this embodiment also provides a washing machine that uses the support foot device provided in any of the above contents.

[0082] Specifically, four support feet are installed at the bottom of the washing machine, located at the four corners of the bottom. This provides stable support for the washing machine and facilitates operation by workers.

[0083] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 The support foot device includes: a support base, a guide rod 2, an elastic element 3, a locking rod 4, a pressing element 5, and a locking element. The support base can be placed on the ground.

[0084] The guide rod 2 extends vertically, and its top end is used to connect to the bottom surface of the washing machine. The guide rod 2 and the support base are interlocked, and the guide rod 2 can move vertically relative to the support base. That is, the guide rod 2 can move up and down without separating from the support base. The support base guides and limits the movement of the guide rod 2.

[0085] Elastic element 3 is located at the top of the support base and is compressed by the weight of the washing machine. When the washing machine with support feet at the bottom is placed on the ground, the weight of the washing machine causes the elastic element 3 to compress and the guide rod 2 to move downward. Assuming that the washing machine has four sets of support feet at the bottom, the washing machine can compress the elastic elements 3 in all four sets of support feet and move the guide rod 2 downward until all four sets of support feet reach a stable position. When the four sets of support feet are produced in the same batch and the performance of the parts is basically the same, the washing machine can achieve a stable leveling state.

[0086] The top of the locking rod 4 is used to connect to the washing machine 7, specifically to the bottom surface of the washing machine 7. The locking rod 4 is located next to the guide rod 2 and is arranged side by side with the guide rod 2, that is, the locking rod 4 extends vertically.

[0087] The clamping member 5 is disposed at the lower part of the locking rod 4 and is movable relative to the locking rod 4. The clamping member 5 can move relative to the locking rod 4 in a first direction to contact the surface of the support base, or in a second direction to move away from the support base. The locking member is disposed at the lower part of the locking rod 4 to press the clamping member 5 against the surface of the support base, so as to keep the washing machine locked in this position and prevent shaking.

[0088] When the washing machine reaches a stable level, operate the clamping component 5, push the clamping component 5 to move along the first direction and press it against the surface of the support base to complete the locking. This solution only requires one locking operation on each of the four sets of support feet at the bottom of the washing machine, which is simple, quick, efficient, and reduces the workload of workers.

[0089] The above solution employs a support base, guide rod, elastic element, locking rod, pressing element, and locking element. The guide rod extends vertically; its top end connects to the washing machine. The guide rod and support base are interlocked, and the guide rod can move vertically relative to the support base. The elastic element is located at the top of the support base and is compressed by the weight of the washing machine. The top end of the locking rod connects to the washing machine and is located beside the guide rod, parallel to it. The pressing element is located below the locking rod and can move relative to it. The pressing element can move relative to the locking rod in a first direction to contact the surface of the support base, or in a second direction to move away from the support base. The locking element, located below the locking rod, presses the pressing element against the surface of the support base, enabling the washing machine to self-adaptively level itself using its own weight, eliminating the need for repeated manual operation and significantly improving efficiency. After leveling, only the locking element needs to be operated to press the pressing element against the support base surface, simplifying operation and reducing worker workload.

[0090] Based on the above technical solution, this embodiment provides an implementation method for a support base: the support base includes a base 11 and a support column 12. The cross-sectional area of ​​the base 11 is larger than that of the support column 12, and the larger cross-sectional area of ​​the base 11 allows for stable support on the ground. The support column 12 extends vertically and is disposed on the upper surface of the base 11. The top of the support column 12 and the guide rod 2 are interlocked.

[0091] The base 11 can be made of metal or rubber. When made of rubber, it can prevent the washing machine from making loud noises when moving or operating.

[0092] One embodiment is as follows: the guide rod 2 has a cavity, the support column 12 is inserted into the cavity of the guide rod 2, the support column 12 can move vertically within the cavity of the guide rod 2, and the elastic element 3 is disposed between the top of the support column 12 and the guide rod 2.

[0093] Another implementation is as follows: The top of the support column 12 is provided with a receiving cavity for accommodating the guide rod 2. The guide rod 2 is inserted into the receiving cavity and can move up and down within the receiving cavity, achieving vertical relative movement with the support column 12. An elastic element 3 is sleeved on the guide rod 2, and the bottom end of the elastic element 3 abuts against the top of the support column 11. The gravity of the washing machine presses the guide rod 2 downward, causing the guide rod 2 to move downward and compress the elastic element 3 until a stable state is reached.

[0094] This stable state can be the position where the elastic element 3 reaches its maximum deformation, or it can be the position where the weight of the washing machine is equal to the rebound force of the elastic element.

[0095] The elastic element 3 can be a rubber sleeve, a linear spring, or other structures. The top of the elastic element 3 is fixed to the bottom of the washing machine, which also prevents the guide rod 2 from coming out of the support column 12.

[0096] The aforementioned support column 12 can be a cylindrical shape with a rectangular cross-section or a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section.

[0097] The locking rod 4 extends vertically, and its top end is connected to the bottom surface of the washing machine 7. The lower part of the locking rod 4 is provided with a sleeve 41, and the clamping member 5 passes through the sleeve 41 and can move in the first direction or the second direction within the sleeve 41.

[0098] The clamping member 5 can be a rod-shaped structure, inserted into the sleeve 41. The sleeve 41 can be a cylindrical tube, arranged horizontally, with the center line of its inner hole passing through the center line of the cavity receiving the support column 12. The clamping member 5 can move within the sleeve 41 in a first direction until it contacts the outer surface of the support column 12; or it can move in a second direction, separating from the support column 12. The second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0099] The locking element can be implemented in various ways, such as by threaded tightening, clamping, or strap locking. This embodiment provides one implementation method: the locking element includes a connecting rod 61, an eccentric wheel 62, and a handle 63.

[0100] One end of the connecting rod 61 is connected to the locking rod 4. Specifically, the top end of the connecting rod 61 is connected to the locking rod 4, and the bottom end is connected to the eccentric wheel 62.

[0101] One embodiment is as follows: the connecting rod 61 includes two sections bent at an obtuse angle, one section extending vertically and connected to the eccentric wheel 62, and the other section obliquely upward and connected to the locking rod 4.

[0102] The shaft of the eccentric wheel 62 is connected to the other end of the connecting rod 61. Specifically, the shaft is fixed to the connecting rod 61, and the eccentric wheel 62 can rotate relative to the shaft. Alternatively, the eccentric wheel 62 is fixedly connected to the shaft, and the shaft is rotatably mounted on the connecting rod 61.

[0103] The handle 63 is connected to the eccentric wheel 62, which can drive the eccentric wheel 62 to rotate until it contacts the clamping member 5, and can apply a thrust to the clamping member 5 that moves in the first direction.

[0104] Furthermore, the clamping member 5 has a first stop block 51 at one end and a second stop block 52 at the other end. The first stop block 51 is located on one side of the eccentric wheel 62 and is in contact with the eccentric wheel 62. The second stop block 52 is located on one side of the support base and is in contact with the support base, specifically with the outer surface of the support column 12. The first stop block 51 and the second stop block 52 also prevent the clamping member 5 from dislodging from the sleeve 41, thereby limiting the stroke of the clamping member 5.

[0105] Both the first stop block 51 and the second stop block 52 can be cuboid in shape. Their two larger opposing surfaces are perpendicular to the clamping member 5. One surface is connected to the clamping member 5, and the other surface is used to contact the outer surface of the support column 12.

[0106] The first stop block 51 can be a metal block, a plastic block, or a rubber block, etc. When a rubber block is used, it can generate a large frictional force with the circumferential surface of the eccentric wheel 62, preventing slippage and without damaging the surface of the eccentric wheel 62.

[0107] The second stop block 52 can be a metal block, a plastic block, or a rubber block, etc. When a rubber block is used, it can generate a large frictional force with the support column 12 without damaging the surface of the support column 12.

[0108] Furthermore, a third stop block 42 is provided at the bottom end of the locking rod 4 for contacting the handle 63. Specifically, the bottom end of the locking rod 4 is bent towards the handle 63. The third stop block 42 is cuboid in shape, and its two larger opposing surfaces are perpendicular to the bottom end of the locking rod 4.

[0109] The third stop block 42 can be a metal block, a plastic block, or a rubber block, etc. When a rubber block is used, it can generate greater friction with the handle 63, preventing slippage and not damaging the surface of the handle 63.

[0110] In the above-described solution, when the washing machine with bottom support feet is placed on the ground, the machine's gravity causes the elastic element 3 to compress and the guide rod 2 to move downwards. Assuming the washing machine has four sets of support feet, the machine can compress the elastic element 3 in all four sets of support feet, causing the guide rod 2 to move downwards until all four sets of support feet reach a stable position. When the four sets of support feet are produced in the same batch and the components have essentially the same performance, the washing machine can achieve a stable leveling state.

[0111] like Figure 1 and Figure 2From the viewing angle, after the washing machine reaches the leveling state, turn the handle 63 counterclockwise to rotate the eccentric wheel 62. During the rotation of the eccentric wheel 62, it pushes the clamping member 5 to the right until it contacts the outer surface of the support column 12. Continue to rotate the eccentric wheel 62 until it can lock the clamping member 5 and the eccentric wheel 62 will not rotate in the opposite direction, thus achieving the locking state.

[0112] When it is necessary to release the lock, turn the handle 63 clockwise to release the pressure applied to the clamping member 5.

[0113] like Figure 3 As shown, C is the rotation center of the eccentric wheel 63; O is the geometric center of the eccentric wheel 63; F is the reaction force of the first stop block 51 on the eccentric wheel 63; D is the point where the reaction force F of the first stop block 51 on the eccentric wheel 63 is applied; θ is the angle between F and DC; μ is the coefficient of friction between the first stop block 51 and the eccentric wheel 63.

[0114] Frictional torque = μFDC cosθ

[0115] Rotational torque = FDC sinθ,

[0116] When the rotational torque is less than or equal to the frictional torque, the eccentric wheel 63 achieves self-locking in this state. FDC sinθ≤μFDC cosθ→θ≤arc tanμ, that is, the eccentric wheel can achieve self-locking when θ is less than an angle determined by the friction coefficient μ.

[0117] The workflow of the above solution is as follows:

[0118] Step 1: Gravity pre-leveling

[0119] Place the washing machine 7 on the ground 8, and the weight of the washing machine 7 will compress the elastic elements 3 of each support leg device;

[0120] The guide rod 2 slides downward relative to the support column 12, causing the base 11 to be supported on the ground 8;

[0121] The elastic element 3 adapts to the unevenness of the ground and compresses accordingly to complete the initial leveling.

[0122] Step 2: Manually tighten

[0123] Workers observe the level to confirm the leveling status;

[0124] With one hand, turn the handle 63 until it is blocked by the third stop block 42, and the eccentric wheel 63 will also rotate to the dead point position at the same time.

[0125] The eccentric wheel 63 pushes the first stop block 51 of the clamping member 5, causing the clamping member 5 to move to the right until the second stop block 52 radially presses against the surface of the support column 12, and the locking is completed.

[0126] The above solution enables adaptive leveling by compensating for uneven ground surfaces with elastic components, achieving rapid pre-balancing. Furthermore, no additional tools are required during the locking process; simply turning handle 63 is sufficient. The entire process, from leveling to locking, is done manually, making it simple, quick, and efficient, significantly reducing operation steps and time. Moreover, the solution is a purely mechanical structure, independent of electrical circuits or hydraulics, ensuring high reliability and low cost.

[0127] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0128] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0129] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication between two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0130] Although preferred embodiments of this application have been described, those skilled in the art, upon learning the basic inventive concept, can make other changes and modifications to these embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to be interpreted as including the preferred embodiments as well as all changes and modifications falling within the scope of this application.

[0131] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A support leg device, characterized in that, include: Support base; The guide rod extends vertically; the top of the guide rod is used to connect to external equipment. The guide rod and the support base are interlocked and the guide rod can move vertically relative to the support base. An elastic element is located at the top of the support base; the elastic element is compressed by the gravity of the external equipment. A locking rod, the top of which is used to connect to an external device; the locking rod is located next to the guide rod and is arranged side by side with the guide rod; A clamping element is disposed at the lower part of the locking rod and is movable relative to the locking rod; the clamping element can move relative to the locking rod in a first direction to contact the surface of the support seat, or in a second direction to move away from the support seat; A locking element, located at the lower part of the locking rod, is used to press the clamping element against the surface of the support base.

2. The support leg device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support base includes: a base and a support column; the support column extends vertically and is disposed on the upper surface of the base; the cross-sectional area of ​​the base is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the support column; the top of the support column and the guide rod are interlocked.

3. The support leg device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The top of the support column is provided with a receiving cavity for accommodating the guide rod; the guide rod is inserted into the receiving cavity and moves vertically relative to the support column; The elastic element is sleeved on the guide rod, and the bottom end of the elastic element abuts against the top of the support column.

4. The support leg device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The elastic element is a linear spring.

5. The support leg device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lower part of the locking rod is provided with a sleeve, and the clamping element passes through the sleeve and can move in the first direction or the second direction within the sleeve.

6. The support leg device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The locking element includes: A connecting rod, one end of which is connected to a locking rod; An eccentric wheel, the shaft of which is connected to the other end of the connecting rod; A handle is connected to an eccentric wheel; the handle drives the eccentric wheel to rotate until it contacts the clamping element and can apply a thrust to the clamping element that moves in a first direction.

7. The support leg device according to claim 6, characterized in that, One end of the clamping member is provided with a first stop block, and the other end is provided with a second stop block; the first stop block is located on one side of the eccentric wheel for contacting the eccentric wheel, and the second stop block is located on one side of the support seat for contacting the support seat.

8. The support leg device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The bottom end of the locking lever is equipped with a third stop block for contacting the handle.

9. The support leg device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The bottom end of the locking rod is bent toward the handle, and the third stop block is set perpendicular to the bottom end of the locking rod.

10. A washing machine, characterized in that, Includes the support foot device as described in any one of claims 1-9.